Janice Priest – What Love

One of Janice Priest’s jobs is as a clown. But, you would not be able to tell it by the release of this album. It is as stirring and as old-school a Country Gospel project as you can get. She is a very blessed singer, and on this disc, she shares that passion with others.

What Love is a mix of classics with a few new songs included for good measure. Of the classics, she hits a home run with each of them. Her take on “Old Rugged Cross” will pierce right through your heart, and she gives a powerful and passionate reading of such classics as “In The Garden” and “How Great Thou Art.” But, her top moment with one of the standards is her stunning take on “I Surrender All.” She gives a very beautiful performance of the song.

Of the newer material, “A Time To Fight” definitely is a winner, and also benefits from really strong dobro playing. “What Will You Do” has a nice old-Country sound, complete with expert fiddle and steel. The title cut is a plaintive ballad that she delivers well, and “Building Bigger Barns” might be the keeper of the entire disc.

Simply put, I don’t know if you can listen to the music of Janice Priest without getting moved, but after all, that’s the point of an artist, isn’t it?